Safe Routes to School & Active Transportation in Communities

Introduction

The concept of Safe Routes to School (SRTS) has gained significant attention in the transportation planning world, particularly with the growing concern about increasing physical inactivity among children and youth. SRTS programs aim to encourage active transportation, such as walking and bicycling, to and from school, while ensuring the safety of children and other pedestrians. This article explores the history, benefits, and challenges of SRTS programs, as well as current efforts to improve and expand such programs.

History of SRTS
SRTS programs were first introduced in Denmark and the Netherlands in the 1970s as a response to increasing traffic congestion and safety concerns around schools. The programs quickly spread to other European countries and eventually made their way to the United States in the 1990s. In the US, SRTS was initially a grassroots movement led by concerned parents, educators, and community members who saw the need for safer walking and biking routes to schools. In 2005, the Federal Transportation Bill provided funding for SRTS programs in all 50 states, leading to a significant increase in the number of programs across the country.

Benefits of SRTS
SRTS programs have numerous benefits for communities, including:

1. Increased physical activity: Walking and bicycling to school provide children with an opportunity to engage in physical activity, which can improve their overall health and well-being.
2. Improved safety: SRTS programs can improve safety by creating safer walking and biking routes, reducing traffic congestion around schools, and promoting safe driving behaviors.
3. Reduced air pollution: Encouraging active transportation can reduce air pollution by reducing the number of cars on the road.
4. Community building: SRTS programs can help build a sense of community by bringing together parents, educators, and other stakeholders to work towards a common goal.

Challenges of SRTS
Despite the numerous benefits of SRTS programs, they also face several challenges, including:

1. Funding: SRTS programs require funding for infrastructure improvements, education and outreach, and program administration. Securing funding can be a major challenge for many communities.
2. Infrastructure: Creating safe walking and biking routes requires infrastructure improvements such as sidewalks, crosswalks, and bike lanes. Many communities lack the necessary infrastructure, making it difficult to implement SRTS programs.
3. Safety concerns: While SRTS programs aim to improve safety, some parents may still perceive walking and biking to school as unsafe, particularly in communities with high levels of crime or traffic congestion.

Current Efforts to Improve and Expand SRTS Programs
Despite these challenges, there are several current efforts to improve and expand SRTS programs, including:

1. Federal funding: The Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act, passed in 2015, provides funding for SRTS programs through 2020. This funding can be used for infrastructure improvements, education and outreach, and program administration.
2. Complete streets policies: Many communities are adopting complete streets policies, which prioritize the needs of all road users, including pedestrians and bicyclists. These policies can help create safer walking and biking routes to schools.
3. Safe Routes Partnership: The Safe Routes Partnership is a national nonprofit organization that provides resources, technical assistance, and advocacy support for SRTS programs across the country.

Conclusion

Safe Routes to School programs offer numerous benefits for communities, including increased physical activity, improved safety, reduced air pollution, and community building. However, they also face several challenges, including funding, infrastructure, and safety concerns. Despite these challenges, there are several current efforts to improve and expand SRTS programs, including federal funding, complete streets policies, and the Safe Routes Partnership. By working together, communities can create safer and more active transportation options for children and youth.